Training Commences

Although I would consider myself a runner, having run off-and-on since the age of 7 years old, it has always been something I’ve done simply to stay in shape rather than as a serious hobby. For this reason, a structured and varied training programme is something entirely new to me. Similarly, diet is something which I have never thought much about. Don’t get me wrong – I do try to stick to a healthy diet in that I eat plenty of fruit and veg and avoid eating too many unhealthy foods (although I have to admit that one of my favourite meals is the ‘MFU’ – Massive Fry Up!).

However, much as it pains me to admit, this beast of a run clearly requires thorough preparation and dedicated training. I ran the Wilmslow Half in March, having previously only done one run since the New Year, and no other training unless you count a walk to the local shop. Although I struggled somewhat in the latter stages of the run, I was fairly happy with my time given my lack of fitness and preparation. My proper training then started in early April with three short (4 mile) runs (or games of football) per week. These led quite nicely up to the Chester Half in May. This I ran at a similar pace to Wilmslow. Fortunately the training in the interim enabled me to feel comfortable all of the way around the chester Half, and increase my pace for the last few miles. Since then I have run three slightly longer (6-7 mile) runs per week for a couple of weeks. I am currently doing fewer runs each week, but trying to increase the duration, as regular training is not only a struggle to fit in around work, early starts and other commitments, but also very tiring.

I recently run up Snowdon in searing heat, followed by an 8.5 mile run in sunny Sutton Coldfield. Today I took part in the Delwyn Walk which was without doubt the hilliest 15 miles of my life, not made any easier by the extra stone of weight I was carrying on my back. Still the weather was gret though...for ducks! I mustn't grumble though - the conditions were far more pleasant than those I'll be facing next April.

As well as training, I am making steady progress in terms of publicity, sponsorship, equipment gathering, and reading/research in relation to training methods and dietary requirements. I began thinking that the amount of time I would have to devote to this initiative would possibly leave me having second thoughts. However, on the contrary, I have already noticed a dramatic improvement in my time and self management skills, together with the excitement of learning a tremendous amount in such a short space of time.

Anyway, it’s on to the next challenge: The Across Wales Walk. At 42 miles in length you may well ask ‘why don’t you catch the bus?’ and that's a good question. However, I’ve never run or walked further than 26.2 miles and can’t wait to attempt this new challenge (and no that’s not just because they provide a cooked breakfast part way through!). I'm conscious that in addition to becoming accostomed to running considerable distances, that I will also have to training with an increasingly heavy rucksack. I agree with you - many times have I seen these strange people running along in ridiculously hot weather with heavy rucksacks on their backs, and thought 'what on earth are you doing?!' However, very soon I will be one of those people. Please don't think I'm weird.

19th Mar 06 Wilmslow Half Marathon (13.1 miles) 1h 52m
21st May 06 Chester Half Marathon (13.1 miles) 1h 47m
18th Jun 06 Delwyn Walk (15 miles) 2h 51m
24th Jun 06 Across Wales Walk (42 miles)
Mid July 06 Holiday / Running in Cyprus (It's not hot there is it?)
10th Sep 06 Robin Hood Marathon (26.2 miles)
1st Oct 06 Great North Run (13.1 miles)
15th Oct 06 Amsterdam Marathon (26.2 miles)

I'm hoping to start taking some photos during more scenic runs so that I can use them to brighten up my blogs. I had my camera with me today, and would have taken a few pics had I not been afraid that it would have drowned. Anyway, footy calls - apparently there's some big tournament taking place at the moment..?